DENVER – Gov. John Hickenlooper on Friday ordered flags be lowered to half-staff in memory of a fallen Mesa County deputy sheriff.
Deputy Sheriff Derek Geer, 40, was critically wounded Monday while attempting to take a suspect into custody. He died Wednesday night after being taken off life support.
The suspect was identified Wednesday as 17-year-old Austin Patrick Holzer of Grand Junction.
The governor ordered flags be lowered Monday on all public buildings statewide. Flags should be lowered from sunrise to sunset.
“He was kept on life support to provide one last selfless act of service by donating his organs,” a news release from the governor’s office states.
Geer, a U.S. Navy veteran, joined the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office in 2001. His assignments included work in the Court Services Division, Civil Unit, and Patrol Division.
He was awarded the Lifesaving Medal in 2012 for reviving a heart attack victim.
He is survived by his wife and two children, ages 13 and 11.
Funeral arrangements are scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday at the Canyon View Vineyard Church, 736 24½ Road, in Grand Junction. Interment will follow at the Orchard Mesa Municipal Cemetery at 2620 Legacy Way. The public is welcome.
pmarcus@durangoherald.com
